Hamilton: A sterling resistance by Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah stalled New Zealand's progress in the afternoon session, after the hosts had threatened to roll over the Bangladesh batting line-up, on the third day in Hamilton.
Bad Light once again has forced the Umpires to call off for the day. First session belonged to the Kiwis where they took 5 wickets. Bangladesh managed 124 runs in that session and were looking in deep trouble to avoid the follow-on.
The weak Bangladesh batsmen were again exposed to a quality bowling attack. Daryl Tuffey and Daniel Vettori were the pick of the bowlers in the first session. In the second session Mahmudullah (115) maidan ton in Test and skipper Shakib Al Hasan (87) joined forces and put up a brilliant fightback as they added 140 runs for the 7th wicket to help their team avoid the follow-on.
Mahmudullah scored his first century under tough situation and added some crucial runs with the tail to take the visitors past the 400-run mark. Despite his magnificent century, Bangladesh conceded a lead of 145 runs.
New Zealand came to bat in the 2nd innings to pile up a big target but lost the wicket of Watling in the process. New Zealand were 9/1 when play was called off. They lead Bangladesh by 154 runs.
Brief scores
New Zealand: 553 for 7 dec. (Guptill 189, McCullum 185, Rubel 5 for 166) & 9 for 1
Bangladesh: 408 (Shakib 87, Mahmudullah 115,Tamim 68, Vettori 3-88, Martin 3-116)
Status: New Zealand lead by 154 runs